Airbus has begun the final assembly of the first A330neo for Malaysia Airlines, which is scheduled for delivery in Q3 2024. With the tail already painted with the airline’s iconic Wau (kite) logo, the aircraft is set to become the first of 20 A330-900s to join the carrier’s fleet under its widebody fleet modernisation programme.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the production process begins at sites around Europe, where the main aircraft sections are manufactured. These include the forward, central and aft fuselage sections, wings and tail plane. The sections integrate components from suppliers around the world, including from Malaysia. They are then transported to the Airbus final assembly lines in Toulouse for final assembly.

Following the attachment of the main fuselage sections, wings and tail, the next phase involves installation of the cockpit, engines, landing gears, electrical wiring, avionics, fuel and hydraulic systems. The aircraft will then undergo a thorough series of ground checks prior to the installation of the cabin interior. This will be followed by preparation for the first flight and the delivery process.

A330neo components made in Malaysia include avionics instruments such as displays and communications equipment, metallic structural parts, and engine cowling structures

Malaysia Airlines’ A330-900 will showcase an all-new premium cabin layout based on Airbus’ Airspace design. Configured in two-classes, the aircraft will accommodate 28 passengers in Business Class and 269 in Economy Class.

The Business Class will feature individual suites, with Collins Aerospace Elevation full-flat beds with privacy doors, wireless charging pods, and highly integrated in-flight entertainment (IFE) solutions among other features, which will enhance cabin comfort and practicality. This marks the debut of the latest iteration of the popular Collins’ product on an A330.

In Economy Class, Malaysia Airlines is set to become the first carrier in Southeast Asia to feature the Recaro CL3810 seats, equipped with amenities such as coat hooks, cup holders and ample stowage. The seat covers throughout the cabin feature the airline’s signature songket motif, paying homage to Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, selected 20 A330neo for its widebody fleet renewal initiative in 2022.

The A330neo delivers exceptional operating economics. It is powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and features new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations. This results in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.

The A330-900 is capable of flying 7,200 nm / 13,334 km non-stop providing ultimate comfort from an award-winning Airspace cabin with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330neo is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus aims for all its aircraft to be capable of operating with up to 100% SAF by 2030. The A330neo is the first aircraft to be certified by EASA for ICAO’s new CO2 emissions standard, demonstrating its compliance with environmental regulations.

At the end of April 2024, the A330 Family had registered almost 1,800 firm orders from 130 customers worldwide, making it the world’s most popular widebody family.

Twitter